Xanax, also known as Alprazolam, is an anxiolytic benzodiazepine and a minor tranquilizer drug. Similar drugs can be bought with different trade names such as Niravam and Alpam. However, Xanax is still the most popular Alprazolam among them all. Furthermore, according to data, Xanax has become the most prescribed and abused benzodiazepine in the market. (1)
Buspar, chemically known as Buspirone, is a psychoactive drug that can treat various mental disorders. It is also an anxiolytic drug which means it can also alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorders. However, unlike Xanax, Buspar is not from the benzodiazepine group.
Uses Of Buspar And Xanax
Some sedating properties present in Xanax can help alleviate dysfunctions in the brain. Xanax works by binding itself to the GABA receptors present in the brain of the user. The drug will then help regulate the electrical impulses that it receives from the brain.
Buspar, on the other hand, works by interacting with certain hormones in our body like serotonin and dopamine. Buspar and Xanax share many uses and properties. However, some functions are also unique to each drug. (2)
Listed below are some uses unique to each drug:
Buspar Uses
- Depression: Although not yet approved for such use, some studies have shown that Buspar may have some antidepressant properties.
- Sexual Dysfunction: There have been some studies that have shown Buspar’s ability to treat HSDD or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in women.
- ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a mental disorder that makes it hard for the person to focus, and limit mental or physical activities.
Xanax Uses
- Panic Disorders: The FDA initially approved Xanax for the treatment of panic disorders. The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry recommends it for the treatment of panic disorders only to patients with no history of addiction, or dependence.
- Chemotherapy- induced Nausea: Xanax has been shown to reduce the incidence or severity of nausea on patients that are undergoing chemotherapy.
Side Effects Of Xanax And Buspar
Due to its low abuse potential, the FDA categorized Xanax as a Schedule IV drug. Nevertheless, there is still a slim chance of getting addicted to it whether or not one uses it according to its prescription. Because of this, the Food and Drug Administration decided to place it under the supervision of the Drug Enforcement Agency.
Some common side effects of Xanax are ataxia, cognitive impairment, constipation, drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, and more. Remember to check with your doctor before taking this drug to assure that these side effects will not endanger your health and safety.
Buspar, on the other hand, carries a lower of physical dependence and addiction compared to other psychoactive drugs. Studies have also shown that there is less likelihood of overdose and impairment with the drug. Users of Buspar may experience some side effects such as dizziness, headache, drowsiness, insomnia, constipation, confusion, and more.
Also See: Pregabalin Vs Gabapentin
Effect On Pregnant Women
Studies have found that the teratogenic effect or the effect on unborn fetuses of Xanax is considerably small. No study was able to prove that pregnant mothers taking Xanax are placing their children at risk of long-term deformities. The findings also apply to infants ingesting breast milk from mothers taking the drug. (3)
Buspar is under the category B with regards to pregnancy. This means that there have been no adequate studies conducted on the effects of the drug to pregnancy. However, prior animal tests have shown that Buspar has minimal effects to fetuses.
Can Xanax And Buspar Be Taken Together?
If taken correctly, taking Buspar and Xanax together poses minimal dangers. There are instances where doctors prescribe the two drugs at the same time as they can work side by side in treating anxiety. Furthermore, Buspar could act as a preventive measure against anxiety attacks, while Xanax can help treat any attack that Buspar was not able to prevent.
However, it is still best to consult your doctor when taking either of the two drugs. Some drug combinations may be safe for others, but not for some. Hence, it is always smart to be careful when deciding to take any drug.
